Do breasts feel swollen and painful before menstruation?

Breast swelling and pain may occur before menstruation, usually related to changes in hormone levels. Breast swelling and pain before menstruation is mainly affected by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone. Some women may also experience breast tissue edema or increased sensitivity.

During the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels gradually increase after ovulation, stimulating the expansion of mammary gland ducts, while progesterone promotes the development of mammary gland alveoli. This physiological change may cause breast fullness or slight tenderness. The pain is usually bilaterally symmetrical and will naturally relieve as hormone levels decrease after menstruation. Wear loose underwear every day to reduce compression and avoid consuming too much caffeine or high-salt foods that aggravate edema.

In a few cases, breast swelling and pain may be related to pathological factors such as breast hyperplasia and breast cysts. If the pain lasts for more than 7 days, there is severe pain at a fixed site on one side, or abnormal lumps are touched, mastitis, fibroadenoma and other diseases need to be ruled out. Breastfeeding women who experience redness, swelling, heat and pain should be alert to acute mastitis, and perimenopausal women with nipple discharge should be screened for breast duct lesions.

It is recommended to record the correlation between pain and menstrual cycle and perform breast self-examination after menstruation every month. When pain is severe, you can try hot compresses or use Chinese patent medicines such as Xiaoyao Pills and Rupixiao Tablets as directed by your doctor. Vitamin E soft capsules may also help relieve symptoms. Avoid taking hormonal drugs on your own, and having a breast ultrasound every year can help detect organic diseases early.